Zanzibar

Zanzibar is an archipelago off the coast of Tanzania with a rich history shaped by trade, colonization, and cultural exchange. For centuries, its strategic location made it a hub for merchants from Arabia, Persia, India, and Europe, leaving behind a unique blend of influences.

Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its mix of architectural styles. Ornate Arab doors, Indian-style balconies, and British colonial buildings stand side by side, built from coral stone. The city’s narrow streets lead to landmarks like the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, and the former slave market, which reflect its complex past.

The islands were once a major center for the spice trade, particularly cloves, and this legacy continues in working plantations today. Zanzibar also played a significant role in the Swahili Coast’s trading networks, which spread the Kiswahili language across East Africa.

In 1964, a revolution overthrew the ruling sultan, leading to Zanzibar’s union with Tanganyika to form Tanzania. Today, the islands maintain a distinct cultural identity, blending African, Arab, and Indian traditions in food, music, and daily life.

Beyond history, Zanzibar is known for its white-sand beaches and clear waters, but its true depth lies in its heritage—a living reminder of the forces that shaped the Indian Ocean world.